Tax Exempt Lease - Purchase Financing

The Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) is soliciting bids under solicitation number 2026-ITB-35 for Bank Qualified Tax Exempt Lease-Purchase Financing for a project essential to its utility services. The award will be granted to the bidder offering the overall lowest borrowing cost. Requirements for submission include a completed bid sheet and a detailed amortization schedule covering principal, interest, and purchase option penalties. The successful purchaser must hold title to the equipment during the lease term and transfer unencumbered title to the ACUA for one dollar upon the conclusion of the agreement. Interest payments are scheduled semiannually on March 1 and September 1, beginning March 1, 2027. The procurement process requires electronic submission via the OpenGov Procurement portal, including specific forms completed through DocuSign such as ownership disclosures and certifications regarding investment activities in Iran and prohibited activities in Russia or Belarus. Bidders must provide a bid guarantee, a New Jersey Business Registration Certificate, and evidence of Equal Employment Opportunity compliance. The contract is subject to the Local Public Contracts Law of New Jersey and requires adherence to the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act. Additionally, the successful contractor must provide performance and payment bonds within ten days of the award and comply with strict chemical labeling and safety data sheet requirements per the New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Law.